Does each new covid-19 variant pose a significant threat?
Most covid-19 cases are caused by a particular type of variants, but do we need to worry every time a new one emerges?
The XFG covid-19 variant has dominated global cases since its detection in early 2025, comprising around 60% of sequenced cases. While XFG is better at evading antibodies than previous variants, existing immunity from previous vaccinations and infections appears to protect most people from serious illness. Researchers caution that while the variant is concerning, it is not as dangerous as some feared, and hospitalizations and deaths have not increased.
XFG emerged from an exchange of genetic material between two subvariants of the Omicron lineage, JN.1. The World Health Organization started monitoring XFG in June 2025. Although XFG is gradually evolving, researchers suggest that it represents "quiet" evolution rather than a shift toward greater virulence. The risk of a more dangerous strain emerging in the future remains, particularly in immunosuppressed individuals.
However, real-time assessment of the impacts of a virus is challenging. Countries need to maintain vigilance in monitoring and administering vaccines to protect against future variants.
Written by urgent.news from New Scientist's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
